Q & A with Bernhard Russi
Swiss skiing legend Bernhard Russi conquers the slopes with unparalleled finesse, leaving behind an inspiring legacy that continues to captivate winter sports enthusiasts worldwide.
What was the best race you have witnessed at the International Lauberhorn Races?
I partially saw and painfully witnessed Franz Klammer’s winning run in 1975. With poor visibility and rough piste conditions, he improved the course record at the time with a time of 2:35.19 – leaving us all behind by over three and a half seconds.
Who do you consider to be Mister Lauberhorn?
I’m afraid I’ll have to mention three names. Karl Molitor with his six wins between 1939 and 1947. Toni Sailer with four consecutive successful races between 1955 and 1958. And last but not least, Karl Schranz with four triumphs against three generations of top athletes (Sailer, Killy, Collombin). What makes the myth of the Lauberhorn Races for you? The fantastic scenery and natural surroundings, the mountain landscape and the length of the race.
How would you rate the value of winning at Lauberhorn compared to winning any other World Cup race?
I am a Lauberhorn winner but on the wrong side, in Grindelwald. Of my ten World Cup victories, I would trade five for a win at Lauberhorn and four for a triumph at the Hahnenkamm in Kitzbühel. The tenth, the world championship title, I’d keep for myself!
What has been the most emotional moment for you personally in Wengen?
It’s hard to explain, but it was when I finished in 10th place in 1970, with the start number 73 and won my very first World Cup point.
Which three skiers who were active before or after you would you have liked to compete against at the Lauberhorn?
Definitely Toni Sailer, Jean-Claude Killy and Beat Feuz!
Words Alex Kühn
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